How to Choose an Under-the-Sink Water Filter

If your filtration needs exceed that of a low-end faucet filter or pitcher-filter, or if you have excessive sediment, heavy metal or bacterial contamination, you'll likely need to opt for an under-the-sink water filtration system. There are many available on the market, and with these steps you can make an educated decision on which system to choose.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• water purity test
• under-the-sink water filter

1. Research various water filters that are reviewed online or in consumer magazines. This will inform you of different makes, models, features and prices.

2. Find out the degree of contamination. Depending on how severe you think the problem is, you can use either a kit from a hardware store or hire a professional to do a more thorough screening.

3. Choose the appropriate filter for your contaminants. Sediment, heavy metals and pH problems are often solvable with an under-the-sink filter. Other problems such as bacteria or nitrates sometimes require reverse-osmosis filters.

4. Shoot for a low number of required filter changes, and make sure that it's quick and easy to change the filters when it becomes necessary.

5. Install the filter. Many filters can be installed with a little know-how and a look at the owner's manual. If it proves daunting, though, enlist a friend or hire a pro.

Tips & Warnings

• Match your contamination to the right filter.
• Don't get coaxed into buying a filter you don't need. Filter salespersons aren't the most unbiased water testers available. Request a water quality report from the local water authority.